"One of the benefits of having a city bird is allowing artists, communities and different businesses and other organizations the opportunity to use it as part of the way they're promoting their relationship with nature," Reimer said.

In previous years, the city bird was elected every year for a one-year term. By winning this election, the Anna's hummingbird has earned the title in perpetuity, succeeding the peregrine falcon.

"With their iridescent emerald feathers and sparkling rose-pink throats, Anna's hummingbird are more like flying jewelry than birds, but they are also fierce defenders and enforce their turf with tenacity," says a city statement.

"Their housing needs are modest and Anna's Hummingbirds could easily live in the potted plant in any Vancouver neighbourhood."